Two sites are being considered for the development of a watersports centre within Ilfracombe Harbour, which will consolidate existing gig, sailing and canoe clubs into one facility. Development at either site, Larkstone Beach or The Cove, will have implications for the management of navigational safety within the harbour and its approaches.

North Devon Council appointed ABPmer to carry out a comprehensive review to support risk mitigation for the proposed centre. Following consultation with harbour users, the Harbour Authority and scheme developer, our Maritime team carried out a Navigational Risk Assessment (NRA) to identify hazards associated with the centre and risk control measures that should be implemented.

The NRA identified that, while the development has the potential to increase vessel traffic at peak times, any associated risks could be mitigated through a series of active harbour management measures ensuring effective traffic management and the preservation of marine safety.

ABPmer’s planning and consents specialists regularly prepare environmental statements and support developers through the minefield of marine consents.